Insurer help MG driver mark his 98th birthday

One of the UK’s leading classic car insurance brokers has presented a special gift to one of its oldest customers.

Footman James presented 98 year old Ron Easton with a set of Bentley calf leather driving gloves to celebrate his driving career.

Ron, who lives in South Devon, has been a Footman James customer for the past 17 years; he is the proud owner of two sports cars, his original 1981 MGB GT and a 2004 MGF for daily use. In his earlier years, Ron owned a race-bred TVR which he eventually sold to his long term friend and fellow race fan in Australia.

One of the original members of the South Hams Motor Club – which celebrates its 50 year anniversary next year – Ron was born in March 1916. He first learnt to drive as a taxi driver before the Second World War and – when the government commandeered taxis for the war effort – Ron was offered a driving job and chose the Artillery Engineers transporting heavy guns and other warfare materials; at the end of the war, Ron set up a car hire business which he ran until his retirement.

In 2009 – at the sprightly age of 93 – Ron took a ‘Driving Longer for Safer’ test which he passed with flying colours. A jubilant Ron then wrote to Footman James thanking the company for offering him continued cover. He said: “I am completely satisfied.”

Andy Talbot, Footman James’ Trading Director said; “We are absolutely delighted that Ron can continue driving his classics. We are keen to promote the older driver keeping their classic cars and driving them wherever possible and Ron is an excellent example of this.

“Older drivers can continue to drive well into their 80s and 90s but it’s obviously important for them to regularly assess their driving and make adjustments as necessary. Driving is a complicated task, requiring continuous concentration and good health. We are delighted that, at such a ripe old age, Ron can still enjoy driving his classics.

“There are currently more than 7 million drivers aged 65 years and over in the UK; at Footman James, our cover for the older driver offers both protection and peace of mind. We pride ourselves on offering great value and many quality benefits. Catering specifically for the older driver, we take into account the concerns and needs of those later in life. With no hidden charges and absolutely no upper age limit, you can rely on us!”